New South Wales Labor MP Hugh McDermott says he categorically denies allegations of sexual and verbal harassment made against him by a former staffer.

In a complaint filed with the Public Service Association of NSW, Nicole Scott alleged Dr McDermott pressed his groin up against her back and brushed past her breast more than once.

Dr McDermott — who has held the western Sydney seat of Prospect since 2015 — denies the accusations.

Ms Scott alleged Dr McDermott verbally abused staff.

Ms Scott and two other staff members were made redundant in November.

“I am deeply concerned to hear of the allegations, which I categorically deny,” Dr McDermott wrote in a Facebook post.

“Any allegation of harassment is a very serious matter.

“At no time has any member of my staff spoken with me about such allegations, nor have they lodged a formal complaint through any of the channels available to them which would trigger a proper investigation and consideration of any such matter.”

Dr McDermott said Ms Scott’s employment finished due to changed operational requirements within the office.

A NSW Labor spokesperson said the allegations would be assessed by the party.

“The ALP has a rigorous and independent process for assessing allegations of harassment,” it said.

“A process which observes the rights of all parties to a fair hearing.

“Whilst the ALP has not received a complaint in this matter and is not the relevant employer, this process will be activated to assess the information in today’s media reports.”

The NSW Minister for Counter Terrorism, Corrections and Veterans Affairs, David Elliott, said Dr McDermott should have been suspended from Labor’s partyroom while investigations take place.